Tokyo Station: Travel Guide Above and Below (English Narrative)

Welcome to the Tokyo Station Travel Guide—a comprehensive 40-minute video, revised from the earlier version published in February 2024. This guide covers everything from iconic above-ground landmarks to the extensive underground city. Explore the historic Marunouchi red-brick facade, the modern Yaesu side, and hidden gems in the underground city, Chikagai, including Tokyo Character Street and a network of shops and eateries beneath the surface. Designed for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers, this video offers practical tips and in-depth insights to help you navigate Tokyo Station's complex layout. Join us in this updated version for a detailed journey through the station's rich history, stunning architecture, and dynamic underground scene.

Introduction

110 years ago, in 1914, this iconic landmark opened its doors. It is more than just a railway hub; it's a living testament to Japan's journey and transformation. The station has continually evolved, overcoming numerous challenges to become the modern complex you will find in this video today.

The Marunouchi side showcases stunning Meiji-era architecture with its iconic red-brick facade. This grand structure features two prominent towers above the north and south exits, each crowned with eagle sculptures perched on octagonal domes. Between these towers lies a charming central section that features a small canopy and bonsai trees, and the Central Plaza in front adds to its grandeur. At night, the illuminated facade accentuates its architectural beauty.

Across the station, the Yaesu side boasts a modern architectural marvel - the Yaesu GranRoof. This expansive structure, illuminated in the evenings, contrasts the historical elegance of the Marunouchi building. Together, they represent the perfect blend of tradition and modernity that defines Tokyo itself.

Whether you're a first-time visitor to Japan or a seasoned traveler, we're delighted to be your companion. Today, we explore Tokyo Station, above and below, offering practical tips and must-know details to showcase the hidden gems both above and below ground.

Prepare to be dazzled! Tokyo Station's hidden gems await. Imagine yourself strolling through Tokyo Station's grand hallways, marveling at the sleek Shinkansen trains gliding in and out. Then, delve into the vibrant Chikagai, the station's hidden underground city teeming with one-of-a-kind shops and delectable eateries. Join us for an immersive journey that unveils Tokyo Station's hidden secrets and equips you with practical tips beyond the guidebooks. Discover a side of Tokyo Station that most travelers miss!

Prologue: Navigating Tokyo Station for International Travelers

Have you ever seen scenes of massive train stations in Tokyo? Tokyo Station is among the most challenging stations to navigate, particularly for those new to the area. But don't let it overwhelm you. This video will guide you through the station's intricacies, helping you understand its layout and ensuring a smooth journey.

For international travelers, as an example, I will show you the route to the Narita Express platform to showcase Tokyo Station's intricacy. When you enter the ground floor of Tokyo Station, follow the signs for the Marunouchi Central Exit, which will lead you down a central staircase or escalator to the platform. Once downstairs, look for the red line on the floor and follow it. You'll see two long escalators on your right and left, marked with 'Narita Express' or 'Sobu / Yokosuka Line.'

Take one of these escalators down to the 4B floor. From there, just take another escalator to reach the platform shared with the Sobu / Yokosuka Line. Watch for the Narita Express train - it will look like a sleek red and white bullet train with a distinctive logo.

Unlike local trains, you cannot hop on to the Narita Express without a reserved seat. This high-speed train zips between Narita Airport and Tokyo Station in about an hour, making the 65-kilometer journey comfortable and efficient. While Haneda Airport is significantly closer at just 15 kilometers, the Narita Express's speed and comfort make the longer distance less of a factor - especially for JR Pass holders, as the Pass covers the fare.

Having just seen the route to the Narita Express platform, you might find navigating Tokyo Station overwhelming. Finding the right platform amidst the station's complex layout can be daunting. We'll soon unveil our custom-made diagram to revolutionize your Tokyo Station experience. This user-friendly tool will simplify your navigation by providing a clear station layout overview.

To purchase a reserved seat ticket, you must go to the ticket counter or use a ticket machine, as shown in the video. These machines accept cash, credit cards, and Suica, a convenient electronic money card widely used in Japan for transportation and shopping. Suica’s information is available on our dedicated video if you are curious.

Haneda Airport, located closer to downtown Tokyo, can also be accessed from Tokyo Station via the Yamanote Line and then transferred to the Kaykeeoo Line or Tokyo Monorail. This makes it a popular choice for travelers, particularly those staying in areas around Shinagawa and Yokohama. While Haneda's proximity to downtown Tokyo attracts some travelers, Narita Express's convenience and wider flight options at Narita International Airport make it often the preferred airport of choice by many international travelers.

What you have seen is a typical JR ticket machine. The IC Card Slot accepts IC cards like Suica and credit cards. The Slot for Cards and Tickets is where you insert or receive your card or ticket. The Cash Slot accepts bills and coins for payment, with change returned via the Change Return slot. The Keypad/Buttons are used to input your password for the card.

Limousine or express buses to both Narita and Haneda airports are also available from Tokyo Station Bus Terminals. Although generally slower than trains, buses provide a more budget-friendly option for travelers. We will discuss these options in more detail later.

Tokyo Station hides a secret world beneath its surface. The layout extends into intricate underground facilities, seamlessly connecting to nearby buildings and subway stations. The complexity expands both horizontally and vertically, revealing a station pulsating with activity and dimensions far beyond the observable surface. As I mentioned, navigating from the basement floors to the 4th Floor presents a distinctive challenge, especially considering the labyrinthine design and limitations of the map app. But fear not! Through carefully crafted maps, diagrams, and insightful photos and videos, we’ll provide valuable tips for a seamless Tokyo Station navigation experience.

Tokyo Station Navigation Guide

Now, please take a look at our Tokyo Station diagrams. Divided into the West side (Marunouchi) and the East side (Yaesu—pronounced as Yah-eh-soo), each equipped with three main gates, the station’s layout proves surprisingly straightforward. Simplifying the station’s structure allows us to unravel the labyrinth of its design.

To access platforms or restricted areas, you'll need to pass through a ticket gate using a ticket, Suica card, or JR Pass.

Insert your ticket into the slot and collect it on the other side, or simply tap your Suica (card or smartphone) on the reader for quick and easy entry.

The ticket gates are located on two floors (1st and Basement 1), with Shinkansen platforms having dedicated gates. But, basement 1 can be confusing, so let's focus on the first floor for now.

The white lines on the diagram guide you through the main passages, connecting you across the station. Three significant east-west passages link both sides, joined by two main north-south passages that form vital thoroughfares. Additionally, note the two key passages marked by blue lines, which provide access without needing a ticket.

The diagram highlights five white lines and two blue lines. The white lines represent the main passages inside the gate, while the blue lines indicate passages that do not require a ticket. The diagram also depicts four distinct square sections: the two on the left (west) are commercial spaces—Gransta Tokyo and Ecute, marked G and E on the diagram—featuring narrower passages lined with shops and eateries. These areas offer a vibrant shopping experience but can be more crowded and confusing. The other two squares represent the Shinkansen areas—marked S1 and S2. The five major lines marked in white are essential for navigating to your desired platforms. Since the platforms run north-south, any of these white lines will guide you to your platform efficiently. Remember to return to one of these white lines when navigating through any narrow passage and be aware of which line you are on.

After entering through a ticket machine, follow the marked white lines on the diagram to navigate the main east-west passages, seamlessly connecting you across the station. Staircases alongside these passages lead to various platforms. While some passages may be wider and not resemble typical walkways, these five major routes marked with white lines are essential for reaching your desired platforms. The video vividly portrays Tokyo Station's central passage, a view from the spot marked with a star on the diagram, showcasing its notable width and open expanse.

Remember our diagram's white and blue lines. The corridors are wide and do not resemble the white lines in the diagram, but think of them as corridors like the white lines. They'll guide you through the maze.

Still, feeling lost? Don't worry! Tokyo Station boasts friendly and multilingual staff ready to assist you. Information booths are conveniently located throughout the station, so help is always within reach.

Remember, Tokyo Station offers comprehensive services for long-distance travelers. The helpful Midori-no-madoguchi counters are a great resource—their dedicated staff can assist you with your travel needs, including q and navigating connections.

Naturally, the selection of shops and eateries reflects the needs of travelers on the go. Tokyo Station offers dozens of diverse choices, whether you're looking for grab-and-go options for your train journey (like beautifully boxed Ekiben and crisp seaweed-wrapped Onigiri) or a relaxing pre-departure meal (from spicy miso Ramen to savory Yakitori).

In addition, shops along the corridors offer a wide range of attractive merchandise, from everyday essentials to souvenirs and everything in between!

Tokyo Station’s Network and Connecting Lines

Ready to explore Tokyo Station's network and connecting lines? Clear and colorful signage guides you toward your desired JR line, including the Yamanote Line, the Shinkansen bullet train, and the Narita Express. Follow the signs for your platform, and keep our Tokyo Station diagram in mind; you'll be on your way in no time.

The Japanese train system has a convenient station numbering system. With your understanding of the efficient numbering system, navigating the rail system in Japan may become easier. The Yamanote Line, for instance, is represented by the alphanumeric code 'JY.' Stations follow a 2-letter code plus numbers pattern, with Tokyo Station often labeled as '01' for many lines, but not always. For instance, it's 'JY01' on the Yamanote Line and 'JK26' on the Keihin-Tohoku Line. Also, it is useful to know that Tokyo Station is 'JY01,' and Yurakucho, a station to the south, is 'JY30.' There are 30 stations on the Yamanote Line loop, covering a distance of 34.5 km, which takes approximately one hour to complete.

The numbering increases counter-clockwise. For example, Shinjuku is 'JY17,' and Shibuya is 'JY20.' If you are at Tokyo station and your destination is Shibuya, taking the Yamanote Line in the clockwise direction can be advisable, providing a helpful strategy to navigate Tokyo’s extensive rail network efficiently. The English announcements keep you informed about upcoming stations using this numbering system. Understanding the numbering system allows you to easily track your progress even if you don’t speak Japanese.

The Yamanote Line, a vibrant green loop circling the city’s heart, is the core ring connecting many of Tokyo's central business districts and popular areas. It is the key to safely and efficiently navigating Tokyo. On the other hand, the Keihin-Tohoku Line (JK Line) stretches south towards Yokohama and extends north towards Urawa and Omiya, offering connections to other lines and popular destinations. But the JK Line's usefulness doesn't stop there. It also complements the Yamanote Line in central Tokyo. Here's a handy tip for savvy travelers: between Shinagawa Station and Tabata Station, the JK Line actually runs parallel to the Yamanote Line (JY Line), and they often share the same platforms! This means that if your destination is between these stations, you can take either the JK Line or the JY Line.

Riding Shinkansen

Tokyo Station is the vital hub for Japan's high-speed Shinkansen network, connecting passengers to major cities nationwide with unparalleled speed, punctuality, and comfort. Reaching speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour, the Nozomi, the fastest Shinkansen service, covers approximately 476 kilometers between Tokyo and Kyoto in just 140 minutes, showcasing the efficiency of this high-speed rail system.

The Shinkansen's unique value lies in its rapid connectivity and availability. Most Shinkansen services run every 30-60 minutes, offering flexibility and spontaneity unmatched by other modes of transportation. This frequent service allows travelers to hop on and off trains easily, making it a convenient choice for exploring Japan's major cities.

In addition, unlike air travel, the Shinkansen eliminates time-consuming airport processes, taking you seamlessly from city center to city center. With spacious seating, panoramic windows, and diverse service classes, the Shinkansen transforms your journey into a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Here are the Shinkansen lines and their major destinations from Tokyo Station:

Japan Rail (JR) Pass

Speaking of a trip on the Shinkansen to various destinations, let me introduce you to the Japan Rail Pass, commonly known as the JR Pass. This convenient pass offers unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the Shinkansen, making it a flexible option for exploring Japan. Available in 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day options, the JR Pass can be cost-effective for international travelers visiting multiple cities. Please note that the JR Pass doesn't cover the fastest Shinkansen trains, Nozomi and Mizuho.

The JR Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, allowing you to explore Japan at your own pace. Enjoy significant savings on transportation costs when visiting multiple cities and the flexibility to hop on and off trains as you wish. Experience the convenience of seamless travel without purchasing individual tickets.

It's important to remember that the JR Pass might not be the best choice for every traveler. The pressure to maximize its value can lead to rushed itineraries. Consider your planned destinations and travel style before deciding. You can use online tools or consult a travel agent to determine if the JR Pass is right for you.

In addition, let me briefly discuss reserved tickets. Some trains, such as the Narita Express, have reserved seats only; however, generally, you have the option to choose between reserved and non-reserved tickets. Reserved tickets guarantee you a specific seat on the train. Your ticket will clearly indicate your car and seat numbers, giving you peace of mind, especially during busy travel times. For JR Pass holders, reserving a seat is free, but you need to stop by a ticket counter, where there might be a line.

On the other hand, non-reserved tickets allow you to sit in any available seat in the non-reserved cars, which are usually located at the front of the train. Non-reserved tickets offer more flexibility and are usually cheaper than reserved tickets. You can board any train without worrying about missing a specific one. However, seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. These cars can fill up quickly during peak times, and you might need to stand for part of your journey. Non-reserved ticket travelers may make a line on the platform to get a first-come, first-served seat. For spontaneous travel and cost savings, a non-reserved ticket might be your best bet.

Now, let me show you the costs for a one-way Shinkansen ticket between Tokyo and Kyoto for both the Nozomi and other services in the Ordinary class:

I believe - you are now well-informed enough to make your own decision about purchasing a JR Pass. Or not.

Exploring Surrounding Areas

In the following section, we will explore the areas surrounding Tokyo Station, both above and below, as illustrated in this diagram. Watch the video and use the station's 1st-floor exit locations as reference points.

West Side - Marunouchi

Exiting the station and stepping into the vast openness of Marunouchi, a distinctive atmosphere envelops you—a rare blend of modernity and tradition. This area transcends the conventional urban experience, offering wide, open spaces that invite unhurried strolls and contemplative moments. Unlike typical squares or parks, Marunouchi Central Plaza provides a unique haven where visitors can wander freely, unencumbered by the usual bustle of city life.

This sprawling 6,500-square-meter plaza, adorned with white granite and graced with the presence of trees, serves as a perfect vantage point. It's not merely a gathering spot; it's a photographic haven that captures the essence of Tokyo Station and its architectural surroundings. This open expanse becomes a canvas where the stunning red-brick facade of Tokyo Station stands as a masterpiece, and the surrounding architectural gems contribute to the awe-inspiring panorama.

For both seasoned travelers capturing cherished memories and locals savoring the city's charm, Marunouchi Central Plaza emerges as an iconic photo spot. Here, time seems to slow down, allowing you to appreciate the timeless beauty of Tokyo Station and the vibrant energy of Marunouchi. This distinctive feature sets Marunouchi apart, inviting visitors to experience a harmonious intersection of heritage and contemporary urban living.

Looking around the scenery surrounding the plaza, you'll notice three tall structures—KITTE to the south and Marubiru and Shin-Marubiru to the west—standing amid these architectural marvels, contributing their unique charm to Marunouchi.

Entering the KITTE building, you will find that the uniquely designed atrium and surrounding establishments create a distinctive ambiance, perfectly complementing the station's vibrant energy. Perched on the 6th-floor observatory, visitors are treated to an extraordinary panorama of trains gracefully gliding into and out of Tokyo Station. The view presents a unique perspective reminiscent of the enchanting movements of a meticulously crafted miniature train model. The synchronized bustle and vibrant activities on the tracks below infuse an immersive and captivating dimension into the overall experience, making it a must-see for enthusiasts and those captivated by Tokyo's railway dynamics. Surprisingly, the observatory is not crowded, allowing for a serene atmosphere, known as a hidden gem in Marunouchi, cherished by a select few locals.

Facing Tokyo Station’s red-brick building, there are two tall buildings—Marubiru to the south and Shin-Marubiru to the north. Venture into Marubiru, and you'll find a fusion of upscale shopping, dining, and office spaces around the atrium. The 5th-floor terrace, open to the public, offers a spectacular panoramic view of Tokyo Station. Additionally, the 35th and 36th floors, facing another atrium with tall glass windows, are worth a visit. Visitors can freely rest on the chairs and sofas on the 35th floor, while the restaurants on both floors offer even better views of the surroundings.

On the other side is Shin-Marubiru, literally New Marubiru, which stands tall as the brother of Marubiru. You’ll also find upscale shopping, dining, and office spaces here. Ascend to the 7th-floor terrace of Shin-Marubiru, where panoramic views showcase the iconic Tokyo Station red-brick building and the bustling cityscape. It's an ideal spot to appreciate this central hub’s architectural beauty and vibrancy, offering slightly better angles than Marubiru's terrace.

Oazo to the north, conveniently located just steps away from Tokyo Station's North Exit, is a tranquil oasis amid the vibrant business district. Though not as grand as its neighbors, Marubiru and Shin-Marubiru, Oazo offers a serene escape. Its understated elegance provides the perfect setting for a quiet lunch or leisurely rest. With a mix of shops, restaurants, and a large bookstore, Maruzen, Oazo complements the dynamic energy of Marunouchi with a touch of calm sophistication. Maruzen’s stationery would particularly interest those who appreciate high-quality writing and office supplies.

From Oazo, you can wander through Otemachi to the west and find Kokyo, the Imperial Palace. Further west, toward Takebashi, you'll discover Hirakawa-mon, a historically significant gate leading to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. Originally part of the Edo Castle's defensive walls during the Tokugawa shogunate, Hirakawa-mon stands as a testament to Japan's rich historical and architectural legacy. The gate, with its robust stone walls and intricate design, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.

As you enter through Hirakawa-mon and explore the East Gardens, you'll immerse yourself in a harmonious blend of nature and architecture. Delight in the meticulously landscaped gardens adorned with seasonal blooms and wander through pathways that reveal hidden ponds, centuries-old trees, and historical ruins. The East Gardens, open to the public, include Shiomizaka, a historic slope offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape. This serene oasis not only showcases the beauty of Tokyo's imperial past but also serves as a tranquil escape where visitors can marvel at the coexistence of tradition and modernity within the heart of bustling Tokyo. The gardens provide a peaceful contrast to the vibrant city life, reflecting the elegance and historical significance of the Imperial Palace.

Leaving the Imperial Palace through the Ohtemon Gate and heading towards Tokyo Station, you'll pass wooden guardhouses that add a touch of historical authenticity to your journey. A leisurely tour could take a couple of hours, allowing you to fully appreciate the contrast between the historic serenity of the palace and the bustling energy of Tokyo Station. As you emerge into the central plaza, you'll be greeted by the station's iconic red-brick building. This journey is well worth the time.

Underground City - "Chikagai"

Now, let me introduce you to the extensive underground city beneath Tokyo Station, known as "Chikagai." The term "Chikagai" refers to subterranean shopping areas or underground malls in Japanese. The Chikagai expanding under and around Tokyo Station is so vast and intricate that even locals find it challenging to navigate. It seamlessly connects various parts of the station and extends beyond, offering a unique subterranean experience.

Beneath the Central Plaza lies a one-of-a-kind underground space. Unlike any other in Japan, this vast interconnected area features wide open spaces and numerous pillars. It links the underground floors of Oazo, Shin-Marubiru, Marubiru, and Kitte, as well as the exits and gates of surrounding subway stations. This extensive network underscores the distinctive nature of Tokyo Station’s Chikagai, offering a truly unparalleled subterranean environment.

Two Marunouchi Line exits are located west of Tokyo Station's central and north underground exits. Next to the central exit is a large service counter, Midori-no-Madoguchi, and numerous ticket machines. This north-south corridor, lined with various shops and westbound passages, creates a vibrant and accessible area for travelers. Notably, the central underground exit provides convenient access to the Narita Express.

Interestingly, while the JR Central exit is the smallest of the three main exits on the surface, it becomes a significant access point on the underground floor, offering a prominent connection to the station's underground fare zones.

The underground city beneath Tokyo Station primarily extends across the 1B level, with its intricate network of shops, corridors, and connections. However, the actual train platforms are situated at deeper levels, generally around 2B or 3B and sometimes up to 5B, like the Narita Express. This layered structure, while well-integrated, adds complexity to navigation within the station, making it a bit challenging for travelers to find their way.

From Tokyo Station's Marunouchi side, the underground passages extend in every direction, connecting to a vast network of nearby shopping complexes and subway stations. For instance, the passage beneath gyohkoh dohree to the west leads to Nijubashi-maheh Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line. From there, you can walk through underground passages south to Hibiya Station or north to Otemachi Station, a major subway station hub located northwest of Tokyo Station. In fact, there are numerous subway stations around Tokyo Station. Here is the list:

Pretty amazing, don’t you think?

The underground city beneath Tokyo Station seamlessly connects to a network of nearby subway stations, each offering unique access points and convenience. For instance, Otemachi Station, located to the north, connects to multiple lines, including the Marunouchi, Hanzomon, Tozai, Chiyoda, and Mita Lines. Refer to the diagram to locate the Otemachi Stations, situated northwest of Tokyo Station.

Similarly, Nihonbashi Station to the northeast provides access to the Tozai, Ginza, and Asakusa Lines. To the south, Yurakucho and Ginza-itchome Stations add further connectivity with the Yurakucho Line. To the west, Hibiya Station serves three lines—Hibiya, Chiyoda, and Mita Lines—while Neejoobahshi-maheh Station offers a direct link to the Chiyoda Line. This extensive network ensures you have easy access through the underground city’s intricate passages wherever you’re heading in Tokyo.

Incidentally, three Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line stations—Hibiya, Neejoobahshi-maheh, and Otemachi—are situated on the east side of the Imperial Palace.

Take a look at the Gransta underground entrance diagram. To the east of the north-south corridor, towards the Yaesu side, you can access Gransta Tokyo's fare zone through one of three exits. You can also do so via the North Side B1 Passage exit. This ticket-free underground walkway extends to Tokyo Ichibangai on the Yaesu side (one of the two blue lines on our navigation guide). Along the way to Yaesu, you’ll encounter a ticket gate leading into the fare zone, where you can explore the vibrant commercial space of Gransta Tokyo before continuing to the platforms.

To the south, via the Kitte basement, the passages extend to the Keiyo Line gates. On the left of the Kitte entrance is a tourist information center that assists visitors with directions, local attractions, and transportation information. Along the way, you’ll find various dining options. At the end of the passage is a staircase leading to the gates near the Keiyo Line platforms.

Entering the fare zone through a Keiyo Line gate, you can navigate through another underground passage, equipped with walkways and an escalator, to the Yaesu side of Tokyo Station. This interconnected network ensures smooth navigation through the station's various sections. Although this passage is not shown on the earlier navigation diagram, you can now confirm the access route to the Keiyo Line platforms.

Take a look at the new diagram. Although we did not mention this exit in the Tokyo Station navigation guide, before exploring the east side of Tokyo Station, Yaesu, I want to inform you about the Nihonbashi Exit, which is located on Tokyo Station’s north side—refer to the north end of our diagram's blue line.

Also, review the diagram of the surrounding areas. Even if you haven’t seen some of these areas yet, you’ll now have a better understanding of how they relate to the station exits.

Do you recall the passage from the Central Plaza underground north exit to Nihonbashi Station on the Tozai Line? From there, a passage connects to an entrance/exit of the Tokyo Ichibangai area, located just east of the Nihonbashi Exit. This area includes both Tokyo Ichibangai and Gransta Yaesu.

The Nihonbashi Exit is one of Tokyo Station’s less commonly known exits, often referred to as a more "hidden" access point to the Shinkansen platforms. Located on the Yaesu side of the station, closer to the Nihonbashi district, this exit provides a relatively direct route to the Shinkansen platforms, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking to bypass the busier main concourse areas.

Directly in front of the Nihonbashi Exit, you'll find a bus terminal that caters to a diverse range of destinations, including northern Japan, major cities, and airport transfers to Narita and Haneda. Another nearby bus terminal in the Tekko Building offers similar services for travelers heading to various regions across the country. Along with the bus terminal at the Yaesu South Exit, these terminals serve as the major bus hubs of Tokyo Station.

The bus terminal on Yaesu’s south side also serves airport limousine buses, providing direct and convenient access to Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport.

East Side - Yaesu

We are now stepping into the Yaesu side of Tokyo Station. Here, the modern architectural marvel of the Yaesu GranRoof, elegantly illuminated in the evenings, contrasts with the historical elegance of the Marunouchi building. The vibrant atmosphere and extensive underground city unfold, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Venturing into the underground city, you'll encounter notable sections like Tokyo Ichibangai, Yaechika, Gransta Yaesu, and Daimaru Depachika. Each area presents its own unique atmosphere and a variety of shops, making the underground city a fascinating place to explore. Whether you're seeking gourmet food, casual dining, or unique character goods, Tokyo Station's underground city has something for everyone.

For example, Tokyo Character Street in Ichibangai is renowned for its wide range of character-themed merchandise that appeals to anime and pop culture enthusiasts. Notably, there is a Pokémon store within Tokyo Character Street, offering a variety of Pokémon-themed goods. Additionally, the Pokémon Center TOKYO DX, a larger and more comprehensive store, is located just south of the Nihonbashi Exit, near the northwest side of the Daimaru department store, above Tokyo Ichibangai. This location also features the Pokémon Cafe, where visitors can enjoy Pokémon-themed dishes and beverages, adding to the overall experience for fans.

Additionally, numerous eateries offer delicious, authentic Japanese food, including Okonomiyaki. Tokyo Ramen Street, in particular, attracts lines of visitors eager to taste its various styles of ramen. While it can be quite crowded, this area is conveniently located and offers a diverse dining experience. However, if you're not short on time, you might want to consider other less crowded dining options.

Just west of Ichibangai, in the Gransta Yaesu area, you'll find a more relaxed section with a variety of eateries and spots to enjoy drinks. This relatively limited area offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the busier sections of Tokyo Ichibangai, making it a great place to unwind.

Walking south from Ichibangai, you enter Yaechika, short for Yaesu Chikagai. This area is a more expansive and practical shopping district that extends to the east. It offers a wide range of everyday shopping options, including fashion, lifestyle goods, and dining—geared toward office workers, commuters, and locals who appreciate its convenient access to the station and its practical selection of shops and services. Yaechika stretches eastward to Nihonbashi, connecting with subway stations on the Ginza Line, Tozai Line, and Toei Asakusa Line.

As you navigate through the underground city, you'll also discover notable commercial spaces like the Daimaru department store and its renowned Depachika food floor. Daimaru’s Depachika is a gourmet haven, featuring a wide array of high-quality foods and delicacies.

Daimaru Department Store, with one of its ground-level entrances located on the east side of the north-south corridor near the east-west free walkway, is renowned for its upscale offerings and meticulously curated selections. It’s an ideal place to shop, extending from its Depachika food floor up to the 12th and 13th dining floors. You can enjoy a fine dining experience with a spectacular view of Tokyo Station or the Imperial Palace here. This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for high-end Japanese cultural items to complete your list before heading to the international airport.

The south side of the 2nd floor of Daimaru connects to the north end of GranRoof’s promenade. GranRoof, facing the Tokyo Station Bus Terminal—your gateway to the airports, as mentioned earlier—is not just an architectural delight but also a hub of culinary experiences. Its thoughtfully designed roof and green oasis create a refreshing atmosphere on the east side of Tokyo Station.

On the other side of GranRoof, you'll find Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, a luxurious venue offering a blend of high-end shopping, exquisite dining, and top-tier entertainment. Explore world-class boutiques and savor gourmet cuisine within this iconic establishment. Tokyo Midtown Yaesu caters to those with a taste for the finer things in life, providing a curated selection of upscale shops, fine dining options, and entertainment experiences.

Don’t miss the 5th-floor terrace, accessible through the Exchange Lounge, which offers a spectacular view overlooking GranRoof. This hidden gem allows visitors to appreciate the architectural beauty of GranRoof from above while enjoying a moment of relaxation.

When I take a closer look at the view of Tokyo Station and the buildings behind it, while I cannot see anything beneath the surface, I can feel the deep history and architectural evolution of this iconic landmark. The station and its surroundings tell a story of growth and transformation, capturing the essence of Tokyo's journey over the years.

There are ongoing construction projects on the east side, particularly in the northern section of Tokyo Midtown Yaesu. These projects aim to enhance and modernize the area, promising new facilities and improved connectivity within the underground city and beyond. Watching these developments unfold will be exciting as the area continues to evolve, offering even more opportunities for exploration in the future.

Closing Remarks

As we conclude our journey through Tokyo Station, we return to the expansive underground world known as Chikagai, or Subterra Tokyo. This labyrinthine network beneath the station is a testament to Tokyo's dynamic blend of the old and the new, offering a seamless transition between the bustling energy of the surface and the hidden depths below.

Our navigation guide has been your map through this intricate subterranean city, highlighting the essential passages and key points of interest. From the sophisticated shopping at Tokyo Midtown Yaesu to the culinary delights of Daimaru’s Depachika, each section of this underground maze contributes to the vibrant experience of Tokyo Station.

With the help of our diagram, you have explored the areas around Tokyo Station, including this intricate subterranean city. From the sophisticated shopping at Tokyo Midtown Yaesu to the culinary delights of Daimaru’s Depachika, each section of this underground maze contributes to the vibrant experience of Tokyo Station.

Tokyo Station is not just a transportation hub but stands as a historical and architectural icon, bridging the past with the present. Serving as a central point for both travelers and locals, it offers more than just transit. Whether you're exploring high-end boutiques, indulging in gourmet meals, or marveling at the station's architectural grandeur and spectacular views from the observatory floors, Tokyo Station provides a unique glimpse into the heart of Japan’s capital.

Thank you for joining us on this exploration of Tokyo Station. We hope this guide helps you navigate and appreciate the rich tapestry of experiences that await beneath and inside this iconic landmark. See you in the next episode, and safe travels through Tokyo Station's captivating world.